Willie Mosconi's Winning Pocket Billiards

For Beginners and Advanced Players With A Section on Trick Shots

Random House, Inc.Few players have left a more indelible mark upon a sport than the late Willie Mosconi. For nearly half a century, Mosconi dominated the game of pocket billiards, winning the coveted World Title fifteen times from 1940 to 1957 and pocketing a string of records along the way. His unparalled skill with the cue humbled opponents and astounded audiences worldwide.

In this timeless classic, Mosconi shares his expert advice on every facet of the game, from the essential fundamentals to more complex trick shots. Detailed diagrams and step-by-step illustrations guide beginners and advanced players alike through such basics as the selection of the cue; the proper grip, stance, and bridge; the stroke and follow-through; cueing the ball; and hitting the object ball. Players of any level can improve their game by following Mosconi's invaluable instruction on the finer points of combination and kiss shots, the proper application of English, and the speed of stroke. A section of practice drills encourages players to develop their skills toward mastery.

Mosconi was also renowned for making seemingly impossible shots with confidence and ease. Through diagrammed explanations, he reveals the secrets behind such shots as the "Machine Gun," the "Football Shot," the "Handkerchief Shot," "Jump the Rack," the "Railroad Shot," and more. With a bit of practice and patience, any player can play like the indomitable Willie Mosconi.

Includes a glossary of terms and official rules

Baker & TaylorPhotographs and text introduce the stance, shots, strokes, and strategies of the sport